LG Octane takes over in PhoneDog's "Top Messaging Phones" list

There have been several changes in Verizon's line-up lately - the enV Touch was suddenly taken down from the site, then put back up and made available as only "Certified Pre-Owned" along with the enV3 - and now the Samsung Reality is gone from the featurephone list. Who knows what this means as to the future of any rumored device(s) (*ahem* enV Pro *ahem*), but for now, it means that we at PhoneDog need to update our "Best Messaging Phones" list for Verizon. Lucky for us, we had just the phone to take over the number one spot - the LG Octane. At first glance, yes, it looks like an enV4. It pretty much is an enV4, just with a different name. It features the same clamshell design, the same great physical keyboard that we've all grown to love, and the same superb 3.2 MP camera with autofocus and a flash. The only thing that keeps this phone from being perfect is the 2.5mm headphone jack and its lack of a touchscreen.

We've also added the Nokia Twist to the list for the first time. It may not be the best messaging phone ever, but it's a solid device with a fashionable form factor. It's a shame that Verizon stopped selling their three best messaging phones, but we feel confident that the Octane is the just the phone to keep Verizon's messaging phone lineup top-notch.

Check out the updated list below. What do you think? Agree? Disagree? Let us know in the comments!

1. LG Octane

Same great design and physical keyboard that was so popular with the enV series

3.2 MP camera with autofocus and a flash

Solid build quality with stylish design

Cons

2.5mm headphone jack

The lack of a touchscreen may bother some

Summary

The enV line of phones were some of the best in the business. They may appear to be gone, but the Octane retains the same great design, the same amazing keyboard, and the same great camera. Not only that, but it's cheaper!

SummaryThe Nokia Twist is unique, and for that reason, it won't be perfect for everyone. It is a great messaging phone, but doesn't perform very well in other aspects. If you want a phone that stands out and has a great keyboard, the Twist will suit you just fine.

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